Gestational hypertension - dangerous and relatively unknown

Gestational hypertension - dangerous and relatively unknown

Gestational hypertension is called preeclampsia or toxemia. It is common in women during a first pregnancy and in young women. It is common in women with multiple fetuses, women with gestational hypertension, chronic hypertension and a history of pre-existing diabetes.

Gestational hypertension includes three features. They are protein in the urine, high blood pressure (values ​​over 140/90) and swelling (edema)

Eclampsia, a form of this hypertension, can be serious. Women with eclampsia usually have seizures. Approximately 1 in 1,600 pregnant women experience eclampsia, which develops in the final months of pregnancy.

The cause of high blood pressure during pregnancy is unclear. Certain conditions can increase the risk of developing it. These include: pre-existing high blood pressure or high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, a history of gestational hypertension, a younger woman (usually less than 20 years old) or a woman older than 40 years, and twins or triplets.

Due to high blood pressure, there can be increased resistance in the arteries and capillaries. Restricted blood flow may occur in the pregnant mother's various organ systems, including the kidneys, liver, uterus, brain, and placenta.

Other problems can occur as a result of gestational hypertension, such as: B. premature separation of the placenta from the uterus. It can also cause fetal problems, including poor fetal growth and stillborn birth.

If left untreated, severe gestational hypertension can lead to seizures and death of the fetus and/or mother. It may also be necessary for the baby to be delivered before a gestation period of 37 weeks.

The most common symptoms of high blood pressure in pregnant women are: protein in the urine, increased blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, edema, rapid weight gain, vision problems such as double or blurred vision, upper abdominal pain on the right side, changes in kidney or liver function tests, or urinating small amounts.

An increase in blood pressure is often the basis for diagnoses. Additional symptoms may help establish gestational hypertension as a diagnosis. Tests may include: blood pressure measurements, assessment of edema, urine tests and eye exams to check for changes in the retina, frequent weight measurements, blood clotting tests, and tests for kidney and liver function.

Your doctor will determine treatment specifications for gestational hypertension based on the following criteria: medical history and general health, extent of your hypertension, overall pregnancy, specific medication tolerances, therapies and procedures, and predictions for disease progression.

The overall goal of treating this hypertension is to prevent the condition from getting worse. Treatment for gestational hypertension may include: bed rest (either in the hospital or at home), hospitalization (if specialized staff and equipment may be required), magnesium sulfate, and fetal monitoring. Caesarean section may be recommended.

It is important to identify women at risk for gestational hypertension. Complications of the disease are prevented or minimized. Education about warning symptoms is also crucial, as early detection can help women receive treatment and prevent the disease from worsening.

Inspired by Christine Crotts